Futsal: Penang Hopes To Continue Momentum To Secure Quarter-final Slot

KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 (Bernama) -- Penang is hoping to keep its fine momentum to secure the 2023 Malaysia Premier Futsal League (MPFL) quarter-final slot. 

On Saturday, Penang bounced back from 0-1 down to tie Group A leader Pahang Rangers 2-2 in a thrilling and closely contested match at the Balik Pulau Sports Complex, to be in a comfortable position towards the knockout stage.

Head coach Hasnizal Hashim said his charges’ determination to fight back against the last year’s runners-up, was crucial to enabling Penang to be placed second in the group with one point advantage over Sabah.

“I'm proud of my team's performance today. They showed great determination and fighting spirit to secure a draw. 

“Pahang Rangers is a tough opponent, and we knew it would be a challenging game, but our players stepped up to the challenge and delivered an excellent performance,” he said in a statement.

On Saturday, the unbeaten Pahang Rangers started the game brightly, with Hamdin Zarif Mahmun finding the net as early as the second minute, but Penang fought back to level the game through Razin Rahim in the 20th minute.

Penang, sponsored by QNet, then took the lead through Faizul Azuan Ramli Sharip’s effort five minutes later. However, Pahang spoiled the hosts’ party just a minute before the final blow through Amin Nasrollah Zadeh’s goal (30th minute). 

The results saw Pahang Rangers stay firmly on top of Group A with 16 points after six matches, followed by Penang with 10 points after five matches, while Sabah and Terengganu with nine points and seven points respectively after having played four matches each. 

Only top four of the seven teams in the group will advance to the quarter-finals. 

Penang, with its best achievement being placed fourth last year, is set to take on Sabah and Kedah in upcoming fixtures.

-- BERNAMA